I’ve heard a few derogatory comments about the new Lewes library since it opened, but I’m a fan. I find it exciting that a bunch of committed people managed to pull off the feat of getting it funded and built. It’s a lovely place, especially for children, lots of space and light. In truth, I’m also a bit relieved there’s been a bit of a personnel change since the switch to new premises. As someone utterly lacking in the requisite personality features required for good customer service (smiling, offering pleasantries, not biting people when they ask for help, that sort of thing), I sympathised with the few less-than-welcoming staff at the old place. Running an efficient and tidy library must be irritating when people keep coming in and messing up your stock. But it was scary to have to go and admit to losing a book, or worse, damaging it. I’d lurk behind the stacks and see who was serving, and just come back later if it was one of the more formidable staff members. My, but they could pierce you with a look. Utter disgust, as if you’d pooed on the carpet by the returns trolley. I’m not sure if I actually wet my pants, but I certainly came close after I had to confess to leaving a Thomas the Tank Engine flapbook out in the rain. The library do not charge for lost or damaged children’s books, which makes it worse. I’d rather pay up and leave than be lectured by someone clearly furious that, not only could they not fine me, their powers did not permit the use of electrodes on delicate parts.